19 reviews
Underrated Rocker; Could Use a Deeper Look
I would tell anyone who likes rock music that Rick Springfield is way more than "Jesse's Girl." Listen to "Don't Talk to Strangers," for instance, as an example of a perfectly-crafted pop song. I was interested in this documentary as a look at what he is all about and, as promised, what the people are like who still follow his every move.
There are some extremely moving stories in this movie of fans whose lives have been touched by Rick's music, and it is interesting to see how Rick comes to terms with and embraces these fans.
Where the film doesn't follow through is on the story of Rick himself. There are 2-3 times when you think we the film is going to explore a little of his dark side, and then it quickly retreats. Rick is referred to as having been a "dick" but it isn't elaborated upon. Rick cheated on his wife, but we don't really get her viewpoint, even as he is still knee-deep in women throwing themselves at him. His depression is covered mostly in a montage of clips from interviews promoting his book, rather than by the filmmaker.
This is where a slight credibility gap emerges and the piece leans toward propaganda. Rick has saved the fans, that's clear; the fans helped save Rick, but from exactly what isn't fully explored. He's written a book and maybe that's what the film's purpose is to get people to purchase. It is interesting at first when you get former MTV veejay Mark Goodman commenting positively on Rick's recent music, but less credible when it is revealed he is an employee on Rick's cruise. Several of the documentary encounters with fans are clearly events manufactured by the filmmakers: Rick showing up in fans' hotel room, fans' husbands sneaking into concert. Compare those to the airplane incident with a fan and his friendship with Dustin and I'd suggest none of the manufactured drama held a candle to the real stuff.
So that is the conflict of the film: Fascinating material and great music that I wish Rick and the filmmakers would have trusted an audience with in tandem with a less varnished look at Rick and his fans.
Lastly, wish they could have used more of his music from the mid-'70s part of his career, as the visuals from Comic Book Heroes made me want to hear some of that great album!
There are some extremely moving stories in this movie of fans whose lives have been touched by Rick's music, and it is interesting to see how Rick comes to terms with and embraces these fans.
Where the film doesn't follow through is on the story of Rick himself. There are 2-3 times when you think we the film is going to explore a little of his dark side, and then it quickly retreats. Rick is referred to as having been a "dick" but it isn't elaborated upon. Rick cheated on his wife, but we don't really get her viewpoint, even as he is still knee-deep in women throwing themselves at him. His depression is covered mostly in a montage of clips from interviews promoting his book, rather than by the filmmaker.
This is where a slight credibility gap emerges and the piece leans toward propaganda. Rick has saved the fans, that's clear; the fans helped save Rick, but from exactly what isn't fully explored. He's written a book and maybe that's what the film's purpose is to get people to purchase. It is interesting at first when you get former MTV veejay Mark Goodman commenting positively on Rick's recent music, but less credible when it is revealed he is an employee on Rick's cruise. Several of the documentary encounters with fans are clearly events manufactured by the filmmakers: Rick showing up in fans' hotel room, fans' husbands sneaking into concert. Compare those to the airplane incident with a fan and his friendship with Dustin and I'd suggest none of the manufactured drama held a candle to the real stuff.
So that is the conflict of the film: Fascinating material and great music that I wish Rick and the filmmakers would have trusted an audience with in tandem with a less varnished look at Rick and his fans.
Lastly, wish they could have used more of his music from the mid-'70s part of his career, as the visuals from Comic Book Heroes made me want to hear some of that great album!
- LynxMatthews
- Oct 11, 2012
- Permalink
Too Much Mommies, Not Enough Other Featured Fans
I like music documentaries and this one was interesting and fun except there was too much of executive producer Melanie Lentz-Janney's friends Joanne and Sue. I was bored out of my mind watching these two privileged princesses tramp their way to the next Springfield concert and their constant mugging for attention greatly took away from the film. The bouncing on the bed scene was so phony it was painful; why Springfield ever consented to participate in it is beyond comprehension. Other fan stories were genuine and enjoyable, especially the married couple. I thought the minister's story was particularly powerful (not enough of any of them, cut some of the Mommies!) Dustin and Rick together were magical.That's one lucky young man to have Rick Springfield as his mentor! I thought the directing and editing were good. The sound was outstanding.
Good Doc
Affair of the Heart looks at Rick Springfield's devoted fan base. This movie really sparkles when it focuses on the groupies, which is the majority of the film. What I liked best was how the fans told their own stories of what led them to a place where so much of their time and resources are devoted to a former teen idol whose heyday was more than 25 years ago. Included are some very moving personal stories, interviews with spouses of the fans and their feelings about dealing with the obsessions of their significant others and a lot of recent concert footage. The movie drags when it gets into Springfield's career a little. It's all basic pop star stuff. It wasn't of much interest to me and wouldn't appeal to anyone other than devoted fans. Fortunately this doesn't take up much of the film. Springfield is the star of the film. He's on camera a lot both performing and being interviewed and comes off as a likable star with a good perspective on life. He clearly loves performing and enjoys taking the time to get to know his devoted fans. The connection between the star and his fans makes for an interesting film that's well worth seeing.
This Doc Rocks!
Rick Rocks
I received my long awaited copy and love it. It's an accurate portrayal of real Rick fans as well as the connection Rick has with his lifelong fans. This is not your run of the mill documentary. It tells the story from the flip side-from the fan's point of view. You don't have to be an over the top Rick fan to appreciate this movie. You will have a new found appreciation of the artist and the unique way that he connects with his fans. It's a human story and we can all use more of that. It is full of real, raw and emotional stories write from the heart. What a great legacy to document the impact you've had on so many lives!! Even got my hubby and kids to watch with me :)
- annehendrix-755-364229
- Aug 2, 2013
- Permalink
Affair Of The Heart
for all those people that ever wondered what all the fuss is about Rick Springfield still after all these years,or for those that have forgot about Rick or are new to his music will finally understand what the fuss is all about and why we fans held onto and believed in him for so long. It has to be one of the best documentaries that you will ever see it will make you laugh and cry at the same time. Those who think that we fans are little obsessed with finally have a understanding of what our addiction is...lets face it there worse things to have an addiction with, his fan base is not just us 40'ish women he is liked by men as well from all over the world.
- rickspammy
- Jul 15, 2013
- Permalink
Always wanted to know what it is about Rick Springfield
If you always wondered what it is about Rick Springfield here's your chance to find out. This film shows the amazing connection between Rick and his fans. You could never fully understand the dedication the 2 have unless you are have witnessed it or watched this video.
Great job in bringing us all more closer together and teaching others what it is about Rick Springfield that keeps bringing us back for more.
It is not about Rick himself and was never intended to be it is about us his fans and what he means to us and the family it has made by our love for this man.
Take a chance watch it you might finally get it.
Great job in bringing us all more closer together and teaching others what it is about Rick Springfield that keeps bringing us back for more.
It is not about Rick himself and was never intended to be it is about us his fans and what he means to us and the family it has made by our love for this man.
Take a chance watch it you might finally get it.
- a-henges69
- Jul 16, 2013
- Permalink
A Must See............
As a fan of Rick Springfield for over 30 years, I was not surprised that I enjoyed this documentary immensely! I would, however, like to share my reviews of this for anyone who has not witnessed this phenomenal performer at least once in their lifetime. Not only is Rick Springfield an unparalleled performer, he is, as witnessed in this documentary, a deep, soulful, considerate individual to his fans! The stories of his connection to the fans are amazing! You will laugh, cry, and connect as a human to some truly amazing people. This is a gift of a documentary! Don't delay in viewing this fine piece of cinematic genius!!!!!
- stampandscrapdiva
- Aug 2, 2013
- Permalink
Amazing
This movie is amazing and Awesome , love the stories behind. very well made , It is very inspirational . Im a true fan for over 30 Years . It captures our connection to Rick and his connection to us, There are some wonderful stories about how he has helped his fans through some really hard times. My suggestion is that they should has put more fans to share their stories and not concentrate on the same ones . If you are a fan of Rick Springfield now or back in the 80's when it all began, you must buy it. It shows the relationships that fans have with Rick and the bond that has lasted over 30 years. Rick is a great man and very talented as a musician, songwriter and author.
- redcolora1
- Aug 2, 2013
- Permalink
This s a must buy!
This DVD is a must buy... Rick Springfield is much more than Jessie Girl. This DVD tells the story of a musician who not only ROCKS, But truly cares for his fans each one of them! Rick has big heart and it shows in this documentary abt his fans and Ricks connection with him. I promise you won't be disappointed! Ricks connection with his fans is not only touching but amazing. Rick Springfekd is much more than an Rock Star,an actor ,an Author he is a fan of his own fans! This is a must to have in your collection of DVD. You will not be disappointed ..... Order now. Rick Springfiekd fans in this documentary are just the tip of Rick fans so many fans Who ave been a fan since they where teens, this documentary shows how his music d lyrics help people with there battles... Amazing
- rlsfan0823
- Jul 15, 2013
- Permalink
A fan who was completely AMAZED!!
I have been fan for many, many years and I was completely amazed and brought to tears by this DVD. Rick Springfield is a completely underrated talent who only seems to be associated with either the song "Jessie's Girl" or General Hospital. This DVD shows that he is so very much more. He is an accomplished musician and writer and he very devoted his fans. He is constantly working on a new project and never seems to stop. His endless energy is contagious to all around him. He's been on Californication, Hot in Cleveland and is involved with the Sound City project that was spearheaded by Dave Grohl. He is also currently working on his first fiction novel. Whew...the word multi-talented doesn't even come close.PLEASE if you are not a fan, rent this DVD and watch it. If you are or ever were a fan, buy this DVD and I promise you won't be disappointed.
- prhsbandmom
- Jul 15, 2013
- Permalink
Excellent Documentary
I was fortunate enough to see an earlier version of this film when I was visiting the Southern California area fall of 2011, and I have to say it was wonderful portrayal of a musician who has been not given the credit he rightly should have had for decades, and more importantly, the connection some of his loyal admirers have through his music and to the man himself.
Rick Springfield may be an acquired taste, but I was very impressed with the way the film featured a few chosen fans to spotlight and how the music of Rick Springfield has run like a continuous thread throughout situations in their personal lives.
Kudos to the entire team for a job well done. Even if you are not a fan, you just might come away having an authentic respect for this underrated artist and the people who call themselves fans of his. It really IS an affair of the heart.
Rick Springfield may be an acquired taste, but I was very impressed with the way the film featured a few chosen fans to spotlight and how the music of Rick Springfield has run like a continuous thread throughout situations in their personal lives.
Kudos to the entire team for a job well done. Even if you are not a fan, you just might come away having an authentic respect for this underrated artist and the people who call themselves fans of his. It really IS an affair of the heart.
Surprisingly Inspiring and Energizing!
To my surprise I absolutely loved AN AFFAIR OF THE HEART and I'm not even a Rick Springfield fan! I actually saw it twice when it premiered here in Toronto because I loved all the personal stories of how Springfield helped change and inspire so many lives. And the sense of community amongst the fans over the years and decades was so heartwarming to see. This documentary is so much more than what you think it might be about. Just go and see it!
As for the music and Springfield's performances, I was amazed! Great music and incredible energy on stage! And the film makers Sylvia Caminer, Melanie Lentz-Janney and David Dean all did a fantastic job in storytelling. They really brought out universal themes of the power of community and living your passion in life despite difficult times.
Why are you still reading this review? Go see it now!
As for the music and Springfield's performances, I was amazed! Great music and incredible energy on stage! And the film makers Sylvia Caminer, Melanie Lentz-Janney and David Dean all did a fantastic job in storytelling. They really brought out universal themes of the power of community and living your passion in life despite difficult times.
Why are you still reading this review? Go see it now!
- Motivatorman
- Oct 15, 2012
- Permalink
Just full of heart
Saw this doc at it's official opening night at NYC's IFC Center. Just wonderful. The title is spot on, "Affair of the Heart"....It's about the love fans hold for Rick Springfield, and the love he holds for his fans. You don't need to know or like his music to enjoy this film.
The documentary team follows Rick around the world to various concerts, but this is not so much about his music, but about how he does this for his fans - who are as loyal as they come.
The director, Sylvia Caminer, does another great job - she has really grown as a filmmaker. Her heart is ever present. You'll really feel as if you know each of the highlighted fans, and Rick. The editor does a stupendous job.
Go see it, you won't regret a moment.
The documentary team follows Rick around the world to various concerts, but this is not so much about his music, but about how he does this for his fans - who are as loyal as they come.
The director, Sylvia Caminer, does another great job - she has really grown as a filmmaker. Her heart is ever present. You'll really feel as if you know each of the highlighted fans, and Rick. The editor does a stupendous job.
Go see it, you won't regret a moment.
Rick Springfield fan documentary An Affair of the Heart...AWESOME!!!
An Affair of the Heart is a fan documentary about Rick Springfield. It's both heartwarming and funny, it'll make you laugh and cry. The film crew followed Rick for over two years, gathering concert footage as well as interviewing Rick and the featured fans. The film focuses on 7 fans and shows the amazing connection they have with Rick and how he has touched their lives. It shows the 'human' side of Rick and how he loves his fans as much as we love him. Yellow Rick Road Productions did an awesome job filming this incredible documentary...It's a must see for fans and non-fans alike and you will definitely be a fan after watching this film. It's available on DVD at rickspringfielddoc.com...you will LOVE it!!
Entertaining Documentary...
The last few months I've been going through a documentary phase, partly because I plan on producing one myself, but mostly because I always found them fascinating. A friend suggested that I watch "An Affair of the Heart", a doc about 80's pop-star Rick Springfield. While not a die-hard fan like the ones featured in the film, I appreciated his music and relevance at the time.
I have to say first and foremost, the film made me care about Rick; he was forthright with his issues and demons and I feel he and the filmmakers presented an honest perspective. At one point the film cut to personal stories about people facing adversity and I was "what does this have to do with Rick Springfield?", but that soon turned into some of the most touching footage of the film. I know how important it is to touch someone and have them resonate with you, and the film showed us that Rick has compassion towards people and his fans...when they need him.
I thought the pacing was excellent, with the right amount of interview/fan segments and concert footage. I was never bored and don't think I picked up my tablet once during the film. Some of my favorite segments were on the cruise ship with just Rick and his piano, pouring out his heart. I met my best friend in an Elton John chat room on AOL 20 years ago, so I could relate to the Rick Springfield fans meeting and bonding for life as well.
From a technical perspective, it was shot well...no shaky, amateurish looking shots and the concert footage was excellent. The sound and editing were top-notch as well and I appreciate all the work that goes into a production of this magnitude. Great job!
I have to say first and foremost, the film made me care about Rick; he was forthright with his issues and demons and I feel he and the filmmakers presented an honest perspective. At one point the film cut to personal stories about people facing adversity and I was "what does this have to do with Rick Springfield?", but that soon turned into some of the most touching footage of the film. I know how important it is to touch someone and have them resonate with you, and the film showed us that Rick has compassion towards people and his fans...when they need him.
I thought the pacing was excellent, with the right amount of interview/fan segments and concert footage. I was never bored and don't think I picked up my tablet once during the film. Some of my favorite segments were on the cruise ship with just Rick and his piano, pouring out his heart. I met my best friend in an Elton John chat room on AOL 20 years ago, so I could relate to the Rick Springfield fans meeting and bonding for life as well.
From a technical perspective, it was shot well...no shaky, amateurish looking shots and the concert footage was excellent. The sound and editing were top-notch as well and I appreciate all the work that goes into a production of this magnitude. Great job!
- mediadude8
- Mar 21, 2015
- Permalink
AN AFFAIR OF THE HEART is Terrific!
I really enjoyed watching AN AFFAIR OF THE HEART, a documentary about musician, singer/songwriter, actor and author Rick Springfield. It is the first time I have seen an in depth, back stage look at the relationship a musician has with his fans.
I like how viewers got a glimpse of the lives of several of Rick's loyal fans and how he and his music had a positive impact on them. Each of their stories was heartwarming, as was their relationship with Springfield. I must say I have a greater appreciation of Rick Springfield after seeing the film. So glad AN AFFAIR OF THE HEART is out on DVD and Blu-ray.
I like how viewers got a glimpse of the lives of several of Rick's loyal fans and how he and his music had a positive impact on them. Each of their stories was heartwarming, as was their relationship with Springfield. I must say I have a greater appreciation of Rick Springfield after seeing the film. So glad AN AFFAIR OF THE HEART is out on DVD and Blu-ray.
- susanlkaplan
- Dec 1, 2013
- Permalink
Fantastic Movie - Go See It!!!
I ended up seeing this movie with a friend and I have to say that I loved it... and I didn't expect that. The stories were so genuine and heart warming. It tells the story of how a song or a band or an artist can affect our lives. We have all, at one time, probably felt that way. I know I could relate to everything that everyone has been through when you see this movie. I first became aware of Rick Springfield during the General Hospital years and had lost track of him since and now I am a fan again! This movie is not just for fans of Rick Springfield, but for fans in general. If you have ever been a loyal fan, you will relate to the people in this movie. You will enjoy their stories as I did. I am so glad I saw this move and can't wait to see it again!!!
- marlisanchez
- Oct 14, 2012
- Permalink
Entertaining and touching doc, even for those of us who aren't fans
I walked into "An Affair of the Heart" at the 2012 Boston Film Festival without expectations, as I didn't know or recall much of Rick Springfield's music, didn't know he still performs, and knew nothing about the Grateful Dead-esque phenomenon of his still dedicated fan base.
What I discovered was an entertaining, well shot and briskly paced story that was often hilarious, often deeply emotional, and always interesting. Mostly I admired the film's raw honesty in exploring people's personal stories, dreams and difficulties in life, and why they're drawn together to follow an artist who seems most unlikely at first, but proves to make sense in the final analysis.
The periodic concert footage of this charismatic performer is exciting and fun, making you feel as if you're right there in the front row. But it's never mere concert footage, there's always an emotional story pushing it forward. The music is solid, and broad in range. My favorite was a gorgeous acoustic rendition of a poignant song I'd never heard (like most) called "My Father's Chair," a poetic piece about the loss of his father with a final line that it's hard not to tear up at.
Fans of the artist will love the film because they'll see him and themselves honestly portrayed on the big screen. For the rest of us, it's a fine exploration of universal human emotions, from the triumphant to the uncomfortable.
What I discovered was an entertaining, well shot and briskly paced story that was often hilarious, often deeply emotional, and always interesting. Mostly I admired the film's raw honesty in exploring people's personal stories, dreams and difficulties in life, and why they're drawn together to follow an artist who seems most unlikely at first, but proves to make sense in the final analysis.
The periodic concert footage of this charismatic performer is exciting and fun, making you feel as if you're right there in the front row. But it's never mere concert footage, there's always an emotional story pushing it forward. The music is solid, and broad in range. My favorite was a gorgeous acoustic rendition of a poignant song I'd never heard (like most) called "My Father's Chair," a poetic piece about the loss of his father with a final line that it's hard not to tear up at.
Fans of the artist will love the film because they'll see him and themselves honestly portrayed on the big screen. For the rest of us, it's a fine exploration of universal human emotions, from the triumphant to the uncomfortable.